Providence’s Secret Mall Apartment Story Is Finally Streaming on Netflix

It's one of Rhode Island's most unbelievable true stories—and now it's finally available to stream.

More than two decades ago, a group of local artists discovered unused space inside Providence Place Mall and transformed it into a private apartment. For over four years they lived there undetected, leaving many to wonder how that was possible.

The documentary Secret Mall Apartment reveals how they pulled it off—and now you can watch it from home.

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Where To Stream the Secret Mall Apartment Documentary

After its successful theatrical run last year, which included sold-out screenings at the Providence Place Mall theater, Netflix knew they wanted the streaming rights for this film.

READ MORE: Providence Place Mall Finds Replacement For Showcase Cinemas

After a VOD release last September, the streaming service officially began offering this intriguing documentary to viewers last Friday, January 23, 2026.

It is the award-winning documentary's first time on a major subscription streaming service, and it quickly shot onto Netflix's top ten list in its first weekend.

What Is Secret Mall Apartment About?

When artist Michael Townsend discovered unused space inside the Providence Place Mall back in 2003, the plan was never to stay long.

But one week turned into more than four years. Townsend and seven friends lived inside the mall, sneaking in furniture, tapping into the electricity and building out the space with cinderblocks while remaining completely unnoticed.

READ MORE: Remembering the Secret Apartment Inside Providence Place Mall

Throughout it all they were filming.

Using handheld cameras the friends recorded much of their 2003-2007 adventure. That footage, along with interviews reflecting on the experience years later, makes up this dazzling documentary.

Now the film that won awards at SXSW, the Cleveland International Film Festival, the Sidewalk Film Festival, the Independent Film Festival of Boston and many more can be watched from the comfort of your own couch.